Drug abuse is a major threat to society, particularly in terms of drug-related criminal violence and the spread of AIDS among intravenous drug users. Economic costs of alcohol abuse alone topped the $100 billion mark in 1983, and research indicates that drug-related costs reached that figure in 1988. Drug-induced behavior results in property crime, high levels of impulsive sexual activity with related high levels of venereal disease and teenage pregnancy, and exposure of students and teachers to sexual crimes and violence. Drug abuse is compounded by a lack of educational and work opportunities, exposure to demeaning social conditions, and poverty. A national drug control policy should include international diplomatic and economic measures, interdiction, domestic law enforcement, user accountability, education, prevention, treatment and treatment research, private and public sector employee assistance programs, conscientious parenthood, and civic and peer pressure against drug use. State governments play a central role in any national strategy. Many States emphasize drug-free workplaces in accordance with the Federal Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988, drug-free schools and school zones, drug reduction in public housing, outreach to at-risk youth, special initiatives for intravenous drug abusers, drug testing, and counseling and treatment for State employees. For drug traffickers and users alike, asset forfeiture and fines should be considered as punishment alternatives. Expansion of drug treatment facilities will also be necessary along with improved school education programs. Legalization is not considered to be an answer to the drug problem. 2 references